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Ancient Greece Uncovered with Aegean Islands' Cruise

12days from

£2,579^*per person

Overview

Pair tours of Greece’s finest heritage sites, from Athens to Olympia, with a four-day cruise around a collection of idyllic Aegean islands.

Experience the treasures of classical Greece, by both land and sea, with this island-hopping tour and cruise combination on the Aegean Coast. Kick your escape off with a flight to the national capital, Athens, where you’ll be introduced to its ancient heritage sites and the surrounding countryside. Next, travel along the magnificent Corinth Canal into the Peloponnese peninsula via Epidaurus for a stop in Nafplion, the regional capital of beautiful Argolis. Immerse yourself in the home of the legendary Greek king, Agamemnon, with a tour of UNESCO-listed Mycenae before continuing to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Next, cross the Rio-Antirrio Bridge to picturesque Nafpaktos ahead of a visit to mythical Delphi.

From here, return to Athens for an overnight stay and board the Celestyal Discovery the following morning for a rejuvenating Aegean cruise. Your first port of call, Mykonos, promises some of the most beautiful natural vistas in the country and you’ll have a full afternoon to soak up the sights. Continue east to Turkish Kusadasi, the gateway to Ephesus, for a tour of its ancient Greek ruins and spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Patmos. A visit to historic Rhodes is next, and you’ll venture to the Acropolis of Lindos, one of the island’s most impressive archaeological sites, ahead of some independent sightseeing. Final stops in Heraklion, the Cretan capital, and wine-making Santorini complete a memorable Aegean escape ahead of the return journey to Athens.

Itinerary

Fly to Athens - Fly to the Greek capital where you’ll meet your friendly tour manager and be transferred to your hotel. This evening, you’ll have time to explore the many bars and restaurants of the renowned Plaka district in this cosmopolitan city.
Included tour of Athens - Take breakfast this morning, before touring Athens with its wealth of treasures for its visitors. You’ll start with a visit to the famed Acropolis, the ancient citadel and its surrounding monuments sprawled across a rocky outcrop overlooking the city. Next, visit the Acropolis Museum, one of the most important museums in the world, which houses the findings of the archaeological site, Athenian Acropolis. Finally, enjoy a walking tour of Plaka, situated at the base of the Acropolis, and the oldest and most beautiful neighbourhood in Athens. The guide will lead you around its narrow-cobbled stone streets, family-run tavernas and sidewalk cafés.
Travel to Napflio via Corinth Canal - After a leisurely morning and breakfast, continue your journey to visit the Argolis region. The first highlight of this fascinating day will be the Corinth Canal and hopefully you’ll get to see how ships navigate this man-made wonder. Next up is Epidaurus, a small city famed for its temple and theatre. Dating back over 2,600 years, the theatre was built with outstanding acoustics, which allows for people seated at the top of the theatre to perfectly hear sounds from the stage. It’s also here that modern medicine first developed its theories and there’s an excellent museum dedicated to this.
Included visit to Mycenae - Following breakfast, your first visit of the day is UNESCO-listed Mycenae, among the most important archaeological sites in Greece. According to mythology, this was the town of the legendary king Agamemnon, the leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War. It was also the setting of many myths in ancient Greek tragedies, especially the tragedies connected to Agamemnon and his family.  While in the city, learn about the defensive prowess and innovative engineering that characterised Mycenanean civilisation with a first stop at the ancient citadel, and admire its imposing citadel walls. You can also visit the Treasury of Atrius, the largest Bronze Age tholos (a classical Greek tomb) across the Aegean Sea, ahead of stops at the city’s rich collection of archaeological sites. At the end of the day, return to your hotel.
Included visit to the site of Olympia - Today, enjoy a hotel breakfast ahead of a visit to the site of Olympia, the home of the Olympic Games movement. Before entering the main site, tour the museum of Olympia, which contains the remains of one of the Seven Ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Zeus. During your visit of Olympia, learn about the origins of the Olympic movement. Here, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can practice your 100m spirit at original racetrack, which dates back over two millennia. Often overlooked by most visitors, are the picturesque gardens, which contain a wide variety of flora and fauna. This evening, settle into your Olympia hotel.
Included visit to Nafpaktos and transfer to Delphi - After breakfast, you’ll leave the Peloponnese to return to the mainland with your journey to Delphi. One of the highlights of this journey is to cross on the Rion-Antirion Bridge, which is one of the world’s largest bridges. There’ll be time to stop at the picturesque town of Nafpaktos, which has excellent views across the Gulf of Corinth. With its peaceful setting, you can enjoy a coffee or an ice cream before continuing to Delphi for one night.
Included visit to Delphi - Take breakfast this morning and explore one of Greece’s most iconic sites, Delphi and its renowned museum. Containing a wide variety of ancient friezes, statues and ancient artefacts, this museum also houses the 5th-century bronze sculpture of the Charioteer. From the museum, continue to visit the main site of Delphi, which dates to the era of Apollo and Zeus and the fabled oracle. A guide will take you around the magnificent treasury houses, the theatre, and the ruins of one of the ancient world’s most holy sites. After your visit, you’ll drive through the picturesque Greek countryside back to your hotel for the night in the Greek capital.
Board your Celestyal cruise and call at Mykonos - Enjoy a final breakfast in Athens this morning before transferring to the city’s seaport and boarding the elegant Celestyal Discovery, your base for the next four days. You’ll then leave the Greek mainland behind, setting sail for picturesque Mykonos. Upon arrival in Mykonos, you’ll be free to spend the evening as you see fit, perhaps watching the world go by from a local taverna or taking a stroll through the distinctive, white-washed streets of Chora, the island’s main town. Those in search of a more structured time can also take part in a range of optional activities available which can be booked prior to boarding Celestyal Discovery. After a memorable evening, depart Mykonos and settle into your cabin for a first night at sea.
Calls at Kusadasi and Patmos with optional excursion to Ephesus - Wake up on the Turkish coast this morning and dock in historic Kusadasi, the gateway to Ephesus. Here, you’ll have time to explore under your own steam or join an optional tour to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. With a short trip outside of the city, you’ll be immersed in the region’s ancient Greek and Byzantine heritage with engaging insights from your expert guide. Marvel at the ancient Library of Celsus, once one of the largest Roman archives in the world and learn about the site’s original Greek settlement. Afterwards, return to Kusadasi for some more time at leisure, perhaps browsing the town’s bustling Grand Bazaar for souvenirs. Early afternoon, depart Kusadasi early this afternoon and pass through the Mycale Strait to spiritual Patmos, docking a few hours later in the colourful port town of Skala. Known for its pretty hilltop monasteries, the island has become a popular Christian pilgrimage spot and promises a wealth of sights to enjoy. You can also visit the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John the Apostle is said to have written the Book of Revelations. While on the island, you’ll be free to spend the afternoon as you wish, perhaps with a visit to one of its secluded gold-sand coves or take in its imposing medieval walls. There will also be a range of optional excursions on offer. This evening, reboard your ship for dinner before setting sail for another overnight sailing.
Call at Rhodes with optional tour of the Acropolis of Lindos - Legendary Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands, awaits today and you’ll have a full day to embrace its laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. Disembarking Celestyal Discovery at Mandraki Harbour, which was once marked by the towering Colossus of Rhodes, you’ll have the chance to engage with the locals at the Nea Agora Bazaar. Another captivating optional tour is also available today, bringing you to the time-worn Acropolis of Lindos, a short way south of Mandraki. Here, you’ll discover the ancient ruins of Rhodes’ Temple of Athena and learn about how the Acropolis evolved under the island’s changing rulers. Back in Mandraki, you’ll have a full day at leisure and can discover the island’s diverse cultural heritage taking in the contrasting architecture of Mandraki’s most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the Palace of the Grand Masters, once home to Europe’s crusading Knights Hospitaller, or perhaps explore the ruins of the Greek Temple of Aphrodite. You can also stop at Suleymaniye Mosque, an 14th-century Ottoman temple built to commemorate the Turkish conquest of the island, for a closer look at Rhodes’ colourful history. Those in search of the island’s striking natural landscapes can venture south into the magnificent Butterflies Valley, unwind in Mandraki’s serene Rodini Park or soak up the sun on one of the pristine nearby beaches. There will also be a number of optional visits across the island to enjoy if you’d like. Early this evening, the ship will depart for the last leg of your Aegean odyssey, enjoying dinner with a view as the sun goes down.

Calls at Heraklion and Santorini - Arrive early this morning and start the day with a visit to Crete’s welcoming capital, Heraklion, where you’ll be met by the towering walls of the 16th-century Koules Fortress, which watches over the city’s Venetian harbour. A walk along the city’s outstretched seawalls showcases a vivid array of art installations and panoramic viewpoints, ending at Heraklion Lighthouse. You can also enjoy an optional tour of the city, or explore the spectacular Palace of Knossos, the fabled home of King Minos, at your own pace. Back in the city, Heraklion’s array of cultural institutions, museums and galleries promise no shortage of memorable ways to spend your time. At midday, continue across the Sea of Crete to the volcanic Cyclades Islands for a call at glamourous Santorini. Docking in the town of Fira, nestled in a natural harbour, crown your Aegean cruise with time to explore the island’s picturesque cliffside lanes and its iconic, white-washed buildings. Take the time to relax on the island’s exquisite coastal stretches, or amongst its lush vineyards which cover almost 50% of the island’s surface. If you’d prefer a few final moments’ sightseeing, be sure to pay the island’s iconic, blue-domed churches a visit or soak up breath-taking views of Santorini's volcanic calderas with a walk along its west coast. Later, step back aboard Celestyal Discovery for a final dinner and the overnight cruise back to Athens.
Return to the UK - Arrive in Athens early this morning and enjoy a final breakfast on Celestyal Discovery before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

What's Included

Holiday Highlights

Soak up Santorini’s idyllic vineyard-laden vistas on an evening’s visit and perhaps sample a few of the local labels
Wander around the site of Olympia, the historic birthplace of the Olympic Games
Witness the treasures of the Cretan capital, Heraklion, and visit the magnificent Palace of Knossos, the fabled home of the minotaur
Unwind on the Aegean Sea with a four-night, full-board cruise on the award-winning Celestyal Discovery
Discover Athens and its abundance of archaeological sites
Visit the Corinth Canal and Epidaurus, a small city famed for its temple and theatre
Explore historic Delphi and the Temple of Apollo’s impressive ruins
Tour UNESCO-listed Mycenae, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites
Stop off at picturesque Nafpaktos, overlooking the Gulf of Corinth
Enjoy time at leisure in Kusadasi and Patmos, and marvel at Turkey’s ancient ruins with a memorable optional tour of Ephesus

Our Price Includes

Seven nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation in Athens (3 nights), Nafplion (2), Olympia (1) and Delphi (1)
Four nights’ full-board accommodation on the Celestyal Discovery
11 breakfasts, four lunches and four dinners
Unlimited soft drinks, teas and coffees during mealtimes on the ship
Tour of Athens
Visit to Mycenae
Day trip to the site of Olympia
Visit to Delphi
Tour of Nafpaktos
Corinth Canal tour
Call at Mykonos
Trip to Kusadasi with option to visit Ephesus
Stop in Patmos
Visit to Rhodes with option to tour the Acropolis of Lindos
Calls at Heraklion and Santorini
Return flights to Athens
Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel and transfers throughout
Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager on Days 1 to 7. Our local representatives will transfer and assist you on Days 8 to 12.

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Dates and Prices

Accommodation

Ancient Greece Uncovered with Aegean Cruise Accommodation -

Atheneum Smart Hotel, Athens (nights 1-2)
Positioned within easy reach of Athens most iconic ancient landmarks, this sleek four-star hotel offers the ideal base from which to explore Athens. Traditional Greek dishes are served from the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, which also boasts panoramic views of the Acropolis, and there are several indoor and outdoor lounge areas. Guestrooms are bright and airy, comprising TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, safes, mini-bars, and hairdryers.

Amalia Hotel, Nafplio (nights 3-4)
With views of the impressive Palamidi Fortress and featuring a host of open-air atriums and lush garden areas to relax in, this elegant hotel features a striking design and offers a decadent retreat on the outskirts of Nafplio. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts and a fitness suite while the hotel restaurant, bar and barbecue areas offer international and Mediterranean dishes a la carte. Comfortable guestrooms offer free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning as well as TVs, mini-bars, tea/coffee-making facilities and balconies.  Customers can choose between two hotels in Olympia.

Olympia Palace Hotel, Olympia (night 5)
Only a short drive from Olympia’s Temple of Zeus and the city’s archaeological museum, this hotel boasts exquisite views of Olympia’s sprawling woodland landscapes and ancient nearby ruins. The hotel also offers continental cuisine from its restaurant, breakfast buffet and terraced bar.  Mountain-view guestrooms are air-conditioned throughout and include TVs, safes and mini-fridges. or

Amalia Hotel, Olympia (night 5)
Housed in a whitewashed building, this sleek hotel is ringed by gardens and centred around an outdoor swimming pool. Neutrally coloured guestrooms provide peaceful spaces, with TVs, balconies or terraces, mini-fridges, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The restaurant has a terrace, and there is a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a lounge.  Customers can choose between two hotels in Delphi.

Hotel Apollonia, Delphi (night 7)
This four-star hotel, boasting unparalleled views over the Gulf of Corinth, offers cosy guestrooms and stellar service amidst its relaxing mountain grounds. Guestrooms are air-conditioned throughout and equipped with TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, mini-bars, safes and complimentary Wi-Fi. Traditional Greek cuisine is served from the hotel’s restaurant, and guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool with views over historic Delphi. or

Amalia Hotel, Delphi (night 7)
Comfort and convenience are front and centre of this well-appointed hotel, only a stone’s throw from the heart of Delphi. Guests can enjoy stunning mountain vistas from the poolside or next to the open fire of the hotel lounge. There is also an open-air restaurant, serving authentic Greek cuisine, and a poolside bar.  Cosy guestrooms feature private, garden-view verandas and encompass TVs, mini-fridges and hairdryers.

Celestyal Discovery, Celestyal Cruises (nights 8-11)
Promising first-class amenities and comfort at sea, Celestyal Discovery features an open sundeck with an outdoor swimming pool, and live entertainment in its casual show lounge.

Other Information

Hotel transfer times

The transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approximately 1 hour.

Luggage allowance

You are permitted to take one suitcase per person on the aircraft, which should not exceed 23kg.

Passports and Visas

British citizens require passports when travelling overseas and this must be valid for six months beyond the date you return. If you are not a British citizen, you may need a visa for the country/countries you are visiting (please contact the respective embassies to check and to apply).

Special requirements

If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.

Assisted travel

The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the town, attraction or venue you're visiting. For this tour specifically, it is important to note: - There is walking involved on most days with some steep access to some of the archaeological sites. - The tour of Athens is approx. 6 hours long (with breaks), is done on foot and does include some cobbled streets. If you are bringing a wheelchair, please let us know at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Should you have any concerns whatsoever please do contact us prior to travel.

Itinerary changes

Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.

Changes to your hotels

Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in alternative hotels, of a similar standard, nearby. Full details of your hotels will be sent with your Final Travel Documents.

Hotel room tax

A climate crisis resilience tax (which replaces the standard hotel room tax) of approximately 10 € per room per night is payable locally.

Port taxes

On the Aegean islands, local authorities charge a port tax for each passenger disembarking at any given port. The exact fee fluctuates throughout the year, and more details can be found below. Apr - Sep: 20 € per person for Santorini and Mykonos; all other ports are 5 € per person. Oct: 12 € per person for Santorini and Mykonos; all other ports are 3 € per person. Nov - Mar: 4 € per person for Santorini and Mykonos; all other ports are 1 € per person.

Holiday code

N2826

Holiday provided by Newmarket Holidays (for Metro Travel Offers)

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Newmarket Holidays (ABTOT 5509, ATOL 2325, ABTA V7812), you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.

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